The Myth of Multi-tasking

The myth, for years, has been that multi-tasking combats low productivity and increases efficiency. However, new revelations are proving that multi-tasking can be a productivity killer. According to Sandra Bond Chapman, Ph.D. and founder of the Center for Brain Health, "frequently switching between tasks overloads the brain and makes you less efficient. It's a formula for failure in which your thoughts remain on the surface level and errors occur more frequently."

How do chronic multi-taskers get over this habit? Here are three ways to beat the multi-taking myth and become a uni-tasker:

Create an "environment of focus:" Limit as many distractions as possible. Silent phone and e-mail alerts. Play music in the background to drown out distracting conversations. Place your desk or chair towards a wall so you are not wondering what is happening out the window or door. Put a "Do Not Disturb" sign on your office door. Do what you can to create an environment where you can focus on the task at hand.

Set a "focus time" limit: Sometimes, the idea of focusing can be a bit daunting when you are a chronic multi-tasker. Breaking away from constant technology connections and that "high alert" feeling is difficult. Try setting a timer for 10 or 20 minutes to create some boundaries. Change your focus time as needed, according to the task, your comfort level, and your schedule.

Schedule your "focus time:" It's very easy to push past "focus time" if you don't make it a priority. Block out time on your calendar and stick to it. Choose a time of day that makes sense, maybe when you are most fresh or know that distractions will be limited. If you know that you will have 20 minutes between meetings that would otherwise be wasted, use that time to really focus.

Turn yourself from a multi-tasker to a uni-tasker. Your productivity and efficiency will thank you for it!

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